Simon Field | Lively dark-chocolate color; eggplant. A sophisticated nose of loganberry, compote, juniper, and just a hint of esteva. I almost wrote “soot” but not quite. The palate is broad, inviting, in a minor key: plums, cherry, the grip of firm acidity, and a luxurious, downy, slightly rustic underbelly. The spirit is well integrated, and the finish is strong but not overwhelmingly alcoholic. | 88

Andrew Jefford | Very dense, saturated black-red, with admirable glass-staining abilities. Powerful, articulate, but slightly rustic aromas (at this stage): lots of grain and crushed plant, as well as plum, with smoke, autumn leaves, and ham stock. Working out its destiny, but a lot to give, you suspect. Mouth-filling and broad-chested in the mouth, with splendid tannins and warm and fiery fruits. Big, sweet, extravagant, and baroque, just like Vintage Port should be. This is a wine built in the sweeter style but very good with it. | 92

Richard Mayson | Big, bold, and rather rustic on the nose. Dense but soupy fruit, with a hint of Bovril/ beef stock. Similarly dense and rather raw on the palate; rich and full, with huge extraction. Powerful tannins onto the finish but raw and, at this stage, lacking elegance and finesse. This may well come good in time. | 89